Science-Fiction & Science Fact

Being a sci-fi addict, and a tech geek, I can’t resist beginning this article with some science-fiction. For as long as I can remember, computer tech and robots – and our fascination with Artificial Intelligence (AI) - have dominated our screens. The first movie that came close to looking at AI was Metropolis in 1927 and by 1957 we had Robby the Robot in The Invisible Boy. Concerns around AI were highlighted in the 1968 movie 2001: A Space Odyssey - based on a short story by Arthur C Clarke called “The Sentinel”, HAL, the ship’s onboard computer, decides to take matters into his own hands at the expense of the human crew. To be fair, he was about to be disconnected! Movies like Terminator (1984) and The Matrix (1999) seem to be about the machine outsmarting its human creators in what could best be described as self-preservation.  

Back to science-fact - the evolution of computers and machines will mean certain jobs and tasks will no longer be fulfilled by humans, as technology will do it a lot more efficiently and at a fraction of the cost. AI is undoubtedly reshaping the job market and may impact various industries in the future. While it is difficult to predict exactly, here are some areas that might be affected by AI advancements:

1. Routine and Repetitive Tasks: Jobs that involve predictable and repetitive tasks, such as assembly line work, data entry, or basic customer service, might be replaced by AI-powered automation systems.

2. Transportation and Delivery Services: With the emergence of self-driving vehicles, jobs related to driving and delivery services might diminish. However, new job opportunities may arise in managing and maintaining these autonomous systems.

3. Manufacturing and Warehousing: Robotics and AI technologies are rapidly advancing in manufacturing and warehouse industries. As a result, roles such as assembly line workers, stock inventory managers, and some middle-level management positions may experience reductions.

4. Customer Support and Call Centres: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are becoming more sophisticated, which could lead to a decrease in real-person call centres.

I am personally relieved to say that AI won’t be replacing Early Years Educators and Teachers anytime soon! While the potential impact of AI on the job market is a concern for many, it is important to approach this issue with a balanced perspective. AI's increasing presence in the workplace has the potential to automate certain tasks and roles, but AI will also create new job opportunities and enhance productivity and efficiency across various sectors.
 

Key skills that will be in high demand in workplaces to complement and leverage AI  

1. Data Analysis and Interpretation: AI relies heavily on data, so skills in analysing and interpreting data are crucial. This includes knowledge of statistical techniques, data manipulation, and data visualisation.

2. Machine Learning: Understanding the principles and concepts behind machine learning algorithms is essential. Familiarity with different machine learning techniques, such as supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and deep learning, can be highly beneficial.

3. Programming and Software Development: Proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or Java is important for implementing AI models, designing algorithms, developing APIs, and processing large datasets.

4. Domain Knowledge: Having expertise in a specific domain, along with AI knowledge, can lead to more effective use of AI technology. Understanding the specific challenges and intricacies of a domain can help in applying AI techniques appropriately.

5. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: AI technology often requires creative problem solving.  

Early Childhood Education & Preparing Children for the Future World of Work

Providing children with a strong foundation for learning and success is a crucial role of early years education, making it hugely relevant for preparing children for the world of work in the future. But is it preparing young children for a future that involves AI? I am happy to say that I believe it is.  

Early years education focuses on many aspects, including developing communication and language skills, fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities, promoting social interaction and teamwork, and cultivating a positive attitude towards learning.

These foundational skills and qualities acquired through early years education are essential for success in the working world of the future. Employers increasingly value individuals who possess strong communication skills, critical thinking abilities, creativity, and teamwork capabilities. These are dispositions that are in demand and are less susceptible to automation. Adaptability and emotional intelligence are highly valuable and are less likely to be replaced by AI. Continued development in all these areas can help increase our children’s employability in the future job market as well staying updated with emerging technologies and adapting to industry trends. Furthermore, experiences in the early years lay the groundwork for lifelong learning. They instil a love for learning and curiosity that will help children to adapt as workplaces change.

The S.T.E.A.M learning approach has an important role to play. I personally believe in preparing our children for the future world of work through connecting science, technology, engineering, arts and maths within the current early years’ curriculum is key. AI already has an influence in all areas of S.T.E.A.M.

To fully prepare children aged 3-5 for a future with AI, here are some key areas to consider:

1. Creative problem-solving: Encourage children to approach challenges with creativity and flexibility. This might involve engaging in imaginative play, encouraging curiosity, and providing open-ended activities that promote problem-solving skills.

2. Computational thinking: Introduce simple computational concepts such as sequencing, patterns, and cause-and-effect relationships. This can be done through activities that involve sorting, matching, and organising objects or steps.

3. Digital literacy: Teach children basic digital skills such as navigating user interfaces, using age-appropriate apps or software, and understanding the concept of online safety. Emphasise the importance of responsible technology use and guide them on ethical behaviour online.

4. Emotional intelligence: Help children develop empathy, self-awareness, and social skills. AI will not replace human interactions, so nurture emotional intelligence.

ChatGPT other AI Bots

Back in March, Vodafone published an article asking whether AI chatbots like ChatGPT would be a good or bad thing for children’s education. Rather than think critically and problem solve, would children just ask an AI Bot for the answer?

Professor Thomas, Director of the Centre for Educational Neuroscience at the University of London says “ChatGPT is a big influence and will cause changes in education, but it’s kind of similar to what happened when Google turned up. As children become increasingly able to access (and copy and paste) facts through search engines and AI, we need to move away from rote learning and towards teaching the skills to exploit these new tools…we need to be teaching our kids skills that AI can’t do.”

Parents and educators don’t always have the answers to questions or ideas for activities. Where do we go for help? We currently have lots of early years educators and/or parents happy to share ideas with us online via platforms like Pinterest, YouTube, and forums like the Foundation Stage Forum (FSF). We aren’t cheating by looking at what is being shared in these places. And we soon learn that, rather than following these exactly, we can use them as a starting point for discoveries using our own problem-solving skills, which is much more rewarding and fun.

In the same way, AI Bots can help us by explaining what process we could follow to get a desired outcome, but the journey and the outcome will always be controlled by the human element of practical learning experiences, critical thinking, problem solving and face to face collaborations.

Conclusion

We shouldn’t underestimate AI, and we should be aware of the impact search engines and ChatGPT AI Bots are having on our children’s learning. However, AI has a very long way to go and even as a strong advocate of technology innovation, I believe it will never make cornflour gloop, or playdough, and it won’t replicate the emotional attachment and bond between a child and their keyperson. To prepare children, we need to keep doing what we do so well, with a few occasional tweaks, so we can help them to positively utilise emerging technologies.